The other day I was speaking to a friend and found myself shocked when she mentioned that she had never had her ears pierced. As someone with multiple piercings, my first being for my 11th birthday, I can’t imagine never wanting a piercing. They’re usually the first thing I notice on a person, and, to some extent, even influence how I perceive them (aka how much cooler than me they are). Like tattoos, piercings are a form of expression, adding some interest and individuality to your appearance – yet, in contrast with tattoos, piercings do not come with any commitment!
You’ve decided you want a new piercing, but are now faced with the task of choosing which one to get. Objectively, the least painful and lowest maintenance piercing is the earlobe (it’s the most common for a reason). They are also the most versatile, with such a wide range of lobe-piercing jewellery available in almost every shop. My second least painful was probably my belly button, which is the perfect accessory to any outfit, especially with the current trend of low-rise jeans. It is, however, one of the longest healing times. The ultimate “cool girl” piercing has to be the nose, particularly the septum, but if you’re wanting something less in your face (literally), a helix or conch piercing are both great options. The conch is such an underrated piercing, known as being one of the fastest to heal of any on your ear.
In terms of aftercare, obviously this is different for everyone, but as long as you look after your piercing properly you shouldn’t have any major problems. Normally your piercer will give you instructions to follow, but to give you the gist: clean at least once a day with saline solution, try not to twist the jewellery, and avoid sleeping on the side you got pierced for a few weeks after your appointment. For navel piercings, try not to wear high-waisted trousers or anything else that could irritate it. You may find that the piercing is red, or a bump forms – this is normal, just keep it clean and use a hot compress or a saline soak.
When it comes to actually getting a piercing, many are put off by the price. It can be a bit of a shock to the system when you see places charging up to £50 (!!!), especially as a student. My personal favourite place, and where I have gotten the majority of my piercings done, is The Devil’s Scribe Tattoo on Rose Street. All their piercings are £17 (including jewellery), with discounts if getting multiple. They also take walk-ins, which is great if, like me, you tend to decide to get a new piercing on a whim! A good place to buy piercing jewellery is Lovisa, or Astrid and Miyu, if you’re okay with spending a bit more. A lot of mine are from Etsy, which is especially good for body piercings as you can find something to suit any aesthetic.